SCAM ALERT: Cash App

The Better Business Bureau of Acadiana is warning of a new scam involving CashApp.

The pandemic has forced many people to avoid using actual cash and move toward using digital payment services. In fact, according to the BBB, since the pandemic has taken over the world the CashApp has become very popular with 30 million downloads. Criminals have discovered a way to target users of money transfer services.

Con-artists are tricking victims to send money through the app and then will block the victim. According to the BBB, in one case, a victim was going to buy concert tickets from a seller who only accepted payments through CashApp. The victim was not familiar with the app and agreed. The scammer told the victim that the transaction could be canceled at any time. After the victim sent $350, the scammer blocked the victim.

Another way some people get scammed is through fake customer support numbers posted online. A victim searched online for contact information to reach representatives of CashApp. The number posted was phony. The fake representative tricked callers into revealing their account information. Soon these victim realized their accounts had been drained of funds.

Here’s how to protect yourself from these CashApp con-artists:

Remember, no CashApp employee will ever ask you for your login information over the phone or on social media. They will never ask you for any type of payment. If the so-called representative asks you for private information, it is probably a scam.

Be wary of companies that only accept CashApp payments. Or only accepts gift cards. This usually indicates a scam. Most sellers will accept any online payment.

Do research before sending money. Be sure to verify the seller’s name and information. Double-check everything.

If are planning on using the CashApp, or any other money transfer program, link it to a credit card. A credit card offers protection if for some reason you do not receive the goods or services that you are paying for.

For more information on this scam or to report an incident, visit: BBB.org/ScamTracker.

Source: BBB